Parent Guide to Charlotte's Web
Use these questions to start a discussion with your child about Charlotte's Web by E. B. White, a Flashlight Readers favorite for grades 3–5. Read the book yourself too, so you can better discuss the story and enjoy the online activities together.
- If you were Charlotte, what would you have written in your web about Wilbur?
- Why did Charlotte like Wilbur so much?
- Is Templeton the rat a hero or a villain in the story? Why?
- Do you think Charlotte's three daughters will write words in their webs too, like their mother did? What will they write?
- Have you ever had a really close friendship with an animal?
- What makes someone a good friend?
- Do you eat meat? If so, do you ever think about the animals it came from? What do you think about vegetarianism? Do you think Fern is a vegetarian?
- In the beginning of Charlotte's Web, Fern saves Wilbur from death. Would you have saved Wilbur too? Tell about a time when you stood up for someone smaller or weaker than yourself.
- When everybody is at the county fair, Fern leaves Wilbur alone in his pen while she explores the sights (and food and rides). Why did she do this?
- Are you planning to see the new movie, Charlotte's Web, when it arrives in theaters this December? What part of the book are you most looking forward to seeing on the big screen?
- On December 13, 2006, kids, teachers, librarians, and other fans will gather in schools, hospitals, libraries, and community centers around the country to read aloud from Charlotte's Web! They will all be reading the same passage, from the part of the story when Wilbur first meets Charlotte, at the same time: 12 noon (EST). Who would you read the passage to, and why? (To join the event, visit www.walden.com.)
